Lesson Materials

A good ESL textbook is one of the best foundations for lesson planning. If you don't have access to a textbook or want to take a break from it, the Internet offers a wide range of ESL lesson materials. Unfortunately, many of the materials available are designed for professional teachers in public schools and colleges, making it difficult to find appropriate materials to meet the needs of adult learners in volunteer-based programs. The websites below all offer free ESL lesson plans suitable for adults. Although some are intended for regular teachers, most of the lessons include teaching instructions, and those that don't are generally easy to present.

  • Adult Education ESL Teachers Guide
    General orientation to ESL teaching; 11 lessons for beginners, 11 lessons for intermediate learners, 11 lessons for non-literate learners; most lessons include teaching instructions.
  • Onestopenglish.com
    Free printable lesson plans and worksheets for all levels; registration required.
  • ESL-Images
    Free printable sample lesson plans, worksheets, and picture flash cards for beginner and intermediate levels; more available with membership.
  • About.com Teaching Resources
    Many lesson plans and activities for all levels; designed for classes but adaptable for individual tutoring.
  • Handouts Online
    Free printable handouts on grammar, everyday activities, business English, vocabulary, and other searchable topics; categorized by level under "Most Popular;" some instant lessons designed for regular teachers.
  • TEFL.NET ESL Lesson Plans
    Fifteen free printable lesson worksheets with separate teaching instructions; designed for pair work; language levels not specified.
  • EFL4U.com
    Small collection of sample lessons with printable worksheets and teaching instructions; more available for purchase.
  • John Korber: One World, One People ESL Lessons
    Many lesson ideas with instructions, some for beginners, mostly for intermediate level, adaptable for advanced students.